New Rochelle Celebrates Hometown Hero And Super Bowl Champion Jordan Lucas
NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Football's biggest night came and went. And no matter what you tuned in for, it was a game to remember.
On Monday, Westchester County was celebrating one of its own who helped make it all possible, CBS2's Dick Brennan reported.
For the first time in half a century, the Kansas City Chiefs are Super Bowl champions, and contributing on the field was one of New Rochelle's own. Jordan Lucas plays on the Chiefs' special teams unit.
"It's always great to hear when local talent has gone on to do well, whether it's in college or professional," resident Joe Hargraves said.
Lucas, 26, started his career at New Rochelle High School, playing under former coach Lou DiRienzo before playing college ball at Penn State. DiRienzo said Lucas was a star then and an even brighter one now.
"He was a kid of great character and he was a character all at the same time. He could light up a room with a smile," DiRienzo told CBS2 by phone. "In terms of being on the field, he was a competitor. He brought an energy to practice every day."
"He kind of gives everyone from New Rochelle hope, all the little football players and high school, JV and stuff. It's pretty cool," added Nicole Pulsinelli, a student at Iona College.
Lucas was first drafted by the Miami Dolphins and then traded to Kansas City in 2018.
CBS2 caught up with Lucas' mom, Denise Oakley, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., by Facetime moments before her flight back to New York. She was all smiles recounting the final moments on the field.
"I can't even describe the feeling. I don't know if I wanted to cry or if I just wanted to get on my knees and thank God for everything he's done so far," Oakley said.
Oakley said New Rochelle helped her son become the athlete and person he is today. She added she hopes Lucas' accomplishments inspire others back home in Westchester to reach for the stars.
Because even if you miss, you could land under the bright, shiny stadium lights.
Lucas isn't the first football player out of New Rochelle High School to win a Super Bowl. His brother-in-law, Ray Rice, won with the Baltimore Ravens in 2013.
The Chiefs' championship parade is scheduled for Wednesday in Kansas City.